Creating a more sustainable fleet: Could this electric semi-truck be a game-changer?

Electric vehicles (EVs) are central to reducing greenhouse gas emissions in logistics. EV technology for automobiles is now mainstream, and small cargo e-trucks are common in many urban areas. But electrifying long-haul tractor-trailer trucks, or semis, has long been considered a major challenge. Tesla is demonstrating that it can be done.

We’ve been committed to improving the sustainability of our fleet for years as part of our broader goal to be the Green Logistics of Choice. That’s why last year we tested the promise and potential of the Tesla Semi – and today, that promise is becoming reality.

“It’s a beast!” That’s how Tesla describes its cutting-edge electric truck – the Tesla Semi. Beyond its expected competitive pricing, superior safety specs, and jaw-dropping range of 500 miles (800 km), its three motors deliver triple the power of a conventional diesel semi and an acceleration of 0–60 mph (100 km/h) in 20 seconds. What’s not to love?

In October 2024, over a two-week trial period, DHL Supply Chain USA integrated the Semi into 3,000 miles (5,000 km) of normal operations out of Livermore, California. The trial included one long haul of 390 miles (625 km) – fully loaded with a gross combined weight of 75,000 pounds (34 metric tons) – confirming the Semi’s ability to carry typical DHL payloads over a long distance on a single charge.

During testing, the vehicle averaged 1.72 kWh per mile, operating at speeds exceeding 50 mph (80 km/h) for over half its time on the road. The result exceeded our expectations – and even Tesla’s own rating.

Our verdict after the pilot: The Tesla Semi was ready for prime time.

In December 2025, DHL Supply Chain took delivery of its first all-electric Tesla Semi, marking a major milestone in our pathway toward reducing absolute CO₂ emissions to 29 million metric tons by 2030 and achieving net zero by 2050.

This first delivery expands DHL Supply Chain’s Class 8 electric-vehicle fleet in North America to more than 150 trucks, reinforcing our leadership in more sustainable heavy-duty transportation.

Now operating from its new home in Central California, the Tesla Semi is running approximately 100 miles per day, typically requires charging only once per week, and delivers a fully loaded range of up to 500 miles. It is also projected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 50 metric tons annually. We plan to add more Tesla Semis in 2026, when Tesla begins volume production, further accelerating our transition toward net zero-emission logistics.

Maximizing range and efficiency is crucial to proving that long-haul electric vehicles can perform equivalent work to diesel. The Tesla Semi has demonstrated both: long-distance capability, heavy freight handling, and strong driver acceptance – all while eliminating tailpipe emissions. For customers, this means lower supply-chain emissions and better alignment with their own sustainability goals.

We’ve been integrating electric vehicles into our operations for several years, including early trials of heavy-duty models. Bringing the Tesla Semi into our fleet builds on that work and helps us understand what long-haul electrification can look like in practice. With more vehicles planned for 2026, we’ll continue learning how electric trucks can support lower-emission transport over time.